By Annie Bader
OCEANSIDE, CA–The grand opening of California Assemblywoman Laurie Davies’ new state district office occurred just off of Vista Way, with the month of June coming to an end on the 30th. Oceanside is the latest location the 74th district member has honored to serve, including Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, Camp Pendleton, and Vista. She is the Vice-Chair of the committee on Military, and Veteran Affairs. Joined by city officials and Vista/Oceanside community figures, Davies’ staff gave out information and office tours at the Friday gathering, while discussing the causes she continually advocates for. The Republican representative’s main focus has gone to the factors contributing to California’s infrastructure grade, the public safety of our communities, and relief for families regarding the increase of California taxes.
One cause specific to the Oceanside area mentioned by Laurie Davies was sand erosion. With pre-existing movements like SOS (Save our Sand) Oceanside, and activism surging local events like the recent Independence Day parade, the former Laguna Niguel Mayor provides the issue with potential to be aided by another voice advocating for effective North County coastal protection. Also called to attention by Laurie were her concerns regarding the problems with U.S. infrastructure and how the regions she serves are being affected. As a major advocate for public safety, the Cal State Long Beach graduate has a past of addressing innovative and constructive means behind community issues. In 2022, Davies introduced legislation closing exploited loopholes when it came to pipeline infrastructure in state waters. With California recently being graded a C- by ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers), Laurie may be able to yield support when it comes to local construction happenings.
Laurie Davies’ main focus was stated as public safety. At the opening of her Oceanside office, she emphasized and gave out information regarding the dangers of widespread fentanyl usage, her will to keep our schools safe, and the importance of opportunities for locals from our children to our seniors. With California gas prices being the second highest in the US, Davies’ motion to pause an 8% increase was ruled out by the majority. This past week, amendments were made to budget a bill making it 72 hours required to wait in order to make a final vote. A normal schedule for an assembly member being Monday through Thursday until 11am or so, Laurie Davies’ and any other members with events in their district had to fly back for a late night session when they usually do not have session on Fridays. Due to a delayed flight, Davies’ had made her vote within minutes, while also casting a second special vote the next morning. The day of June 30th’s Friday ribbon cutting, it took almost three hours to make it to Oceanside when it normally takes under one.
Despite the chaos of having to hold session due to the budget deadline, delayed flights, traffic, and the stress of casting a vote on time, Laurie Davies’ still managed to keep in touch with those waiting at the ribbon cutting of her new office. Remaining patient, Davies’ reached out and her staff was able to broadcast the call so those attending the Friday gathering, including John Franklin–the City of Vista’s mayor, and Chamber of Commerce officials could stay updated as they enjoyed the sun and atmosphere of the event. The assemblywoman was luckily able to make it and meet those eager to celebrate her ribbon cutting.
